Have you ever stopped to think about all the stuff you encounter every day? There’s the stuff you breathe, the stuff you eat, the stuff you wear, the stuff you read, the stuff you walk on, the stuff you ride in, the stuff your body is made of… plus water, trees, sunlight, soap, electricity, vaccines, smartphones, and so much more! In The Greatest Stuff on Earth, Steve Tomecek and John Devolle show us how this stuff works, including the miracle of transforming energy into matter and matter into energy. Stars do it…and also internal combustion engines…and living things, including grass and bacteria and worms and cheetahs and even us humans.

With contagiously enthusiastic and chatty explanatory text, fast facts, and clever, stylish and sometimes funny photos, illustrations, and diagrams, this fantastically browsable book offers hundreds of entry points for knowledge-hungry kids.

Steve holds a degree in Geology and has 30 years’ experience educating children (and their teachers) about science in a super fun, friendly way – as a writer, a radio and television presenter, and a live performer. He’s the perfect person to introduce kids to the inner workings of the material world.

"This fascinating book is bursting with facts and graphics. It's a great read for any child interested in the world." 

"A perfect starting point for budding scientists that’s sure to spark a curiosity for, and appreciation of, all the amazing “stuff” our world has to offer."

"This fantastically browsable book offers hundreds of entry points for knowledge-hungry kids."

"Under the banner of “Stuff” Tomecek has delivered a fascinating look at how the world works. It’s geek manna."

"This fact-packed book explores the science behind everyday things."

"Perfect for those curious minds who love asking questions about the world around them".

Nominated as one of the best Irish books of 2025. 

Steve Tomecek began his professional career as a geologist (yes, he’s a real scientist!), specializing in geomorphology and soils. He served as the Associate Director for the Science Museum of Long Island and as the Science Program Supervisor for the New York Hall of Science. Steve has written over 45 non-fiction books for both children and teachers and was the writer and star of 'Dr. Dad’s Ph-3', an Emmy-award-winning television series. He lives with his wife in Queens, New York.